Sewage continues to seep into Gujjarkere, say residents

Sewage continues to seep into Gujjarkere, say residents

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Aug 18, 2015: It is not known how many times the Gujjarkere in southern Mangaluru has been cleared of weeds. But they have sprung up as many times and covered the entire lake of historical importance.

With odour emanating from the tank round the clock, people suspect unabated seepage of sewage into the tank. In spite of deweeding a couple of months ago, the lake is full of them.

The contractor assigned with beautification of the lake, is hesitating to continue with other works, after spending nearly Rs. 10 lakh on dredging as against Rs. 5 lakh earmarked for the work. The contractor fears damage to his work, when MCC undertakes sewage-line replacement work. Though presence of sewage in the lake water has to be officially established, unhindered growth of weeds and odour clearly indicate presence of sewage, the contractor said.

N.E. Naveen, a scientist with Krishi Vigyan Kendra, who visited the tank recently, identified the weed as Salvia Molesta ( Antaragange in Kannada). He told The Hindu that external water — flood or sewage — rich with minerals helps their fast growth.

The lake has its own historical importance and association with the landmark Mangala Devi Temple nearby. It is also surrounded by residential areas. Various authorities, including Mangaluru City Corporation and the government had made attempts earlier to restore the lake, but in vein.

Nemu Kottari, who has been leading residents of Jeppu demanding restoration of the lake to its original glory, said people are fed up with the apathy of agencies concerned in maintaining the lake. The lake is getting polluted and weeds are mushrooming because of continuous inflow of sewage into it, he said and alleged that the Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) has not done any thing to prevent flow of sewage.MCC would act

Mangaluru South MLA J.R. Lobo, who recently visited Gujjarkere, told The Hindu that he has asked the MCC to stop flow of sewage into the lake.

The Corporation would undertake this work shortly, he said and added unless sewage flow is prevented, lake rejuvenation would be difficult.